UYO – Ndifreke Jacob.
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has formally launched the A.R.I.S.E Agenda, setting a visionary blueprint that promises to steer the state towards sustainable development and progress.
After a meticulous 3-day intensive review and engagement with policy experts and development partners, Governor Eno unveiled his administration’s mantra with a call for citizens to key into the ARISE Agenda as its guiding development template.
The unveiling held at Ibom Icon Hotel and Golf Resort, lasted for three days with policy experts and committees spearheading deliberations and contributions to the blueprint.
Speaking during the unveiling, Governor Eno expressed happiness over the successful launch of the blueprint, which he revealed originated as a visionary idea.
According to the governor, the A.R.I.S.E. Agenda, though a comprehensive blueprint aimed at transforming the state and improving the lives of its citizens, is a departure from conventional practices to achieve optimal results for the benefit of the Akwa Ibom people.
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Also, he noted that the A.R.I.S.E. Agenda revolves around key pillars like Agricultural Revolution, Tourism and Environmental Management, Rural Development, Women and Youth Empowerment, Infrastructural Maintenance and Advancement, Security Management, Quality Health Sector Management and Education, as well as Economic, Industrial, and Social Advancement.
Reiterating the agenda’s roadmap, Governor hinted that it will serve as a compass, directing every development plan and program in the state, bringing forth a new and promising Akwa Ibom.
The governor who further stressed on the ARISE Agenda soon becoming a cherished emblem for the state government, called on public officials, and every citizen to adopt and promote its principles, as its widespread benefits accommodate all citizens.
On the need for the youth to join the train of the A.R.I.S.E agenda, he made a passionate appeal against the destructive practice of vandalizing public facilities, and advocated for a collective attitudinal reorientation, noting its power as a key driver to the smooth implementation and sustainable development of the state.
However, he expressed heartfelt appreciation to the facilitators and resource persons in various sub-sectors and reaffirmed his continued collaboration with relevant ministries, agencies, and parastatals to ensure effective and efficient implementation according to the agenda’s template.
Offering more insight into the A.R.I.S.E agenda, the Economic Adviser to the Governor, Dr. Uduak Inam, explained that the A.R.I.S.E. Agenda was formulated to build upon the successes of previous administrations and promises a new and brighter future for Akwa Ibom State.
Dr. Inam pointed out that the agenda’s significance in driving progress and prosperity for the state is a propelling factor that the governor is determined to successfully implement.
Also, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi, the Deputy Governor, lauded Pastor Eno for introducing the A.R.I.S.E. Agenda, which she believes will serve as a guiding framework for the state’s development.
Similarly, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, commended Governor Eno’s vision and ingenuity in crafting the A.R.I.S.E. Agenda, pledging the State Legislature’s full support and cooperation in working towards the achievement of the agenda’s objectives.
In their separate goodwill messages, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, Senator Effiong Bob, Ambassador Assam Assam SAN, Engr Uwem Okoko, Hon Udeme Otong, and Justice Ekaette Obot, all commended Governor Eno for the successful Akwa Ibom dialogue and lauded the agenda’s rich content and nonpartisan approach introduced during the event.
They however pledged unwavering support from their respective constituencies to ensure the smooth and successful implementation of the ARISE Agenda.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the A.R.I.S.E agenda, cultural display, performance of the ARISE theme song by a cross-section of indigenous artists, and decoration of ARISE ambassadors, among others.